THE Ribblesdale League disciplinary committee have come under fire in Baxenden CC secretary David Clegg's annual report, following the suspension of Mark Rishton after a drinking incident in the game against Barnoldswick.

"It has to be said that friendships within the Ribblesdale League have been soured due to the action of the disciplinary committee," he said. "To say we were disappointed with their action would be an understatement, though we now must put this matter behind us."

Mr Clegg revealed that Baxenden lost £278 in 1999, compared to a profit of £4,516 the previous year. But, in what was a transitional year for cricket, they had made major capital investements in covers, a water hog, new nets and general improvements.

He added: "This team, together with some more new faces (including Liam Bones from Haslingden) really should be aiming for a top-four position in the millennium season."

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